Your teeth should give you something to smile about. But if they’re not straight and even, then you may be conscious about your grin. That’s okay! You’re not alone and there is a solution to this fear.

If you are considering braces, there are many common myths about them. Dr Mark Reichman takes a look at some of them, many which deter people from getting them on in the first place.

Braces are just for teens

Braces aren’t just for kids going through puberty. You’re never too old to do something that makes you feel better about yourself. As long as your teeth are healthy, you can benefit from braces at any age and it will even improve your dental health. Even a short phase of braces in adulthood can improve cosmetic work once completed by your dentist, such as crowns.

Having braces will mean my teeth will stay straight forever

Well, that’s the goal, but it’s not that easy. Teeth are connected to the bone by elastic fibers. As the teeth are moved into their new straightened positions, some elastic fibers are stretched and others are compressed. After your braces are removed, these elastic fibers will tend to push and pull your teeth back towards their original position. Getting your bite right adjusted is the first half of the battle, but keeping them teeth straight with retainer devices after getting your braces off is the rest of the battle.

If they’re tight, it’s working

Orthodontics is a delicate balance of forces. A common misconception is that if the braces are tighter they’ll come off faster. While it may seem that tighter adjustments will move teeth faster, too much force will damage the bone and tissues. Too much force may cause some teeth to move the wrong way and increase overall time you need braces. Plus braces don’t even hurt as much as they used to. Wearing braces was often annoying and painful. Improvements in materials nowaday mean there is significantly less discomfort and braces work better than ever without causing pain.

I’ll never get a date!

People hesitate to get braces because of their garish appearance. But metal wires aren’t the only option! While children often prefer the metal option because their friends are all getting them and they can get fun colored bands, there are actually a variety of choices available. Ceramic and lingual braces are virtually undetectable once they are placed. Invisalign is another option that consists of clear, removable trays. This is great for flexible lifestyle needs because it allows you to eat and drink what they prefer.

I hope you enjoyed debunking these braces myths with me. Please share your own insight on braces with me on Twitter @ReichmanMark and read more at drmarkreichman.com

Dr. Mark Reichman is the only active Oral and Maxilofacial surgeon on the Cleft Lip and Palate team at BC Childrens Hospital and he performs surgeries to correct congenital facial deformities of children born with facial deformities and syndromes.